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Zotero: Home

A guide to setting up and using the Zotero bibliographic software

What is Zotero?

Zotero (pronounced "zoh-TAIR-oh") is a free, open source reference management system. It can be used to maintain collections of journal articles as well as citations from books, webpages, data, and more. Zotero can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection and can sync across multiple devices. Zotero has a desktop application as well as a browser plug-in that makes retrieving journal articles a snap. 


The desktop application can be downloaded on systems with the following:

The Zotero Connector works with the following browsers:

  • Chrome
  • Firefox
  • Edge
  • Safari

Zotero has plugins to insert citations directly into:

  • Microsoft Word
  • LibreOffice
  • Google Docs

Making the switch to Zotero

Already a user of Mendeley, Citavi or Endnote? Want to switch to Zotero? You have options for importing your library and notes across platforms. Princeton's library also has an excellent guide to making the switch.

Advanced tips and tricks

Enjoying Zotero and want to get even more out of it? Visit zotero.org and check out their tips and tricks for the current version of Zotero. 

Zotero Logo

Need more help? Zotero's website includes additional tips and tricks in many languages!

For an incredibly thorough guide, check out Zotero by Jason Puckett ISBN: 9780838989319 Publication Date: 2017-08-01 (we have a copy in the library)

You can also contact the library for additional assistance. 

Alternatives to Zotero

We hope you will select a reference manager software rather than tracking via excel sheets or index cards. If you need help with choosing or installing a program please contact the library. We would be delighted to help you pick one that fits your needs!

Additional Questions: